Evaluating Thermal Energetic Performance of Vehicles

[CyclemotorEngineer]

Hi All,

In developing an electric cyclemotor, I explored ways to evaluate performance with respect to thermal energy consumption. It turns out that multiplying thermal efficiency by speed yields a parameter that is expressed in seconds in SI units. Under steady-state conditions, it reduces to twice the kinetic energy divided by thermal power expenditure. This parameter recognizes that electricity is a high grade of energy, efficiently applied, but difficult to store. A more complete description, including a survey of similar work done by others, may be found here:

http://www.neodymics.com/Images/EPPaper070927H.pdf

 

[CyclemotorEngineer]

Attached is figure from the paper linked to above.

 

[safe]

Electric vehicles have difficulty storing much energy, but the small amount they store gets used very efficiency. The best motors in the best situations can produce above 90% efficiency from their energy supply. (electricity)

"It's all about the battery"

...that's something you'll realize after a while. The motors are fine, but the real breakthoughs in using electrical vehicles will be with the battery.

The ideal battery would:

1. Not wear out.

2. Hold a lot of energy.

3. Be able to be charged rapidly.

4. Be able to be discharged rapidly.

5. When discharging it should hold a constant voltage.

 

[Ypedal]

"It's all about the battery"

3. Be able to be charged rapidly.

= Key !